A deadly stampede at New Delhi Railway Station on Saturday claimed the lives of at least 18 people—including 11 women and five children—and injured over a dozen others, as crowds surged to board trains bound for the Maha Kumbh pilgrimage in Prayagraj. Authorities confirmed the casualty count hours after the incident, with rescue operations continuing into the evening.
The Indian Ministry of Railways stated that a "high-level inquiry" has been initiated to investigate the circumstances leading to the crush, which witnesses attributed to overcrowding and last-minute rush by travelers. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed solidarity with affected families on social media platform X, writing: "Deeply distressed by the loss of lives… Authorities are assisting all those affected by this tragedy."
The incident highlights ongoing challenges in managing large-scale public gatherings in India, particularly during major religious events. The Maha Kumbh, one of the world’s largest spiritual gatherings, draws millions of devotees to the Ganges River every 12 years.
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At least 18 dead after stampede at New Delhi railway station
cgtn.com
